Visit to Fonda Mexican in Collingwood
Fonda Mexican has become one of our favourite Mexican street food destinations in Melbourne, since we began visiting the original Richmond restaurant many years ago. We have visited several times since and it's great to see how thwy have evolved, providing more Mexican food lovers with the best and freshest Mexican fare.
Back then (now over a decade ago), Tim McDonald and Dave Youl were on a mission to satisfy their cravings for fresh, flavour-packed Mexican food in a venue that felt like home.
When they noticed a gap in the Australian market, a light-bulb moment followed. The pair set off on a culinary expedition across Mexico, scouting the best bites and most welcoming hangouts in the country. Returning inspired, with full bellies and big dreams, the duo dived into their restaurant venture. Fonda was born.
Transporting the heart and soul of Mexico to Australian shores, Fonda burst onto the scene in 2010 with a flagship in Swan Street, Richmond. The monumental launch attracted hour-long queues and earned the brand a cult following. Fonda has since become synonymous with perfected Mexican street food, with standouts including its legendary tacos and moreish margaritas.
Delicious corn.
We were again invited along to experience Fonda in its culinary evolution, with a visit to the Collingwood restaurant. we were super impressed with everything from the fit out of the restaurant to the excellent food and drinks, to the first class service we received, notably by the restaurant front of house/manager.
Famous tacos.
Following enormous consumer demand, nine restaurants have opened across Sydney and Melbourne. Locations include Richmond, Windsor, Hawthorn, Knox, Chadstone, Flinders Lane, Collingwood, Surry Hills and Bondi, and for Fonda fans with an appetite for more – watch this space!
Chicken salad.
Fish taco heaven.
Nachos were top notch.
No matter which restaurant diners head to, they can expect Fonda’s signature relaxed atmosphere, welcoming hospitality, and playful décor popping with bright injections of colour. In Mexico, a ‘fonda’ is a home that serves the community delicious and simple food that has been lovingly prepared.
Inspired by this concept, Fonda's menu encourages a memorable culinary journey together, fuelled with high-quality, fresh Australian produce.
Burritos were fresh and tasty.
Hungry diners’ only task is to pick from the extensive list of fan favourites found on the eat-in and takeaway menus. The coveted offering includes market-fresh fish tacos, herbed mushroom quesadillas, slow-cooked beef brisket burritos, grilled corn, and nachos with house-made guacamole and pico de gallo, to name a few.
A show-stopping cocktail list transports diners to a beach- side Mexican bar, where thirsts can be quenched by an impressive range of margaritas featuring classic, chilli mango and watermelon & lime, alongside a selection of cerveza, cider, local vino and non-alcoholic beverages.
A distinctive of Fonda is that inside the kitchen, Tim and Dave have nurtured the hospitality teams, building a positive and engaging culture. Highly recommended.